TMZ reports it appeared that Birch shot and killed himself. Officials said Birch was found around the corner from his home, with a gunshot wound to the head. The report also says no signs of drug use were found, and there was not a suicide note.

According to UltimateClassicRock.com, Birch had played with Elton John since 1992, and appeared on the hit single ‘Candle in the Wind ’97′ as well as such albums as ‘Made in England,’ ‘The Big Picture,’ and ‘The Union,’ Elton’s collaborative album with Leon Russell. He had also played with such music greats as Tina Turner, Eric Clapton, Keith Emerson, Stevie Wonder, and Sting.